How to Care for your Septic Tank

If you live in a rural area, you will be quite familiar with a septic tank system. Such systems are an expensive but worthwhile investment. They can be very inexpensive and hassle free to maintain – but only if the maintenance is done correctly and the system is properly cared for. When people try to clean the tank themselves or ignore the rules regarding flushing items, this is when serious problems can occur. When serious problems occur with your septic tank, unfortunately you will have to dig deep into your pockets to fix the problem. These situations and circumstances can be avoided, if you correctly care for your system. Here are some key tips to help you to do so:

1. Watch what you flush

Flushing certain items down your toilet or sink can cause blockages in your septic tank as it is unable to break them down correctly. Do not flush items such as cigarette butts, sanitary towels or tampons, face or baby wipes, diapers, condoms, or chewing gum. The only items that you can flush, no matter what the label might suggest otherwise, include toilet paper, human waste, mild detergents and water. Do not wash items down your sink such as coffee ground, grease, oil, bleaches or household cleaners.

2. Conserve Your Water

The more water that you use, the more that is flushed into your tank and therefore the more pressure on your system. You can reduce the amount of pressure on your septic tank system and therefore prevent it from overflowing or filling up too fast by conserving your water. Do not leave taps running if not in use – the same goes for your shower. Wait until you have a full load before setting a wash on your dishwasher. Spread out your laundry washing – be sure to only wash full loads but do not put on all of your loads on the same day as this will cause unnecessary pressure on your tank. Reduce the length of your showers and use less water in your baths.

3. Schedule De-Sludging/Emptying of the Tank

Depending on the size of your tank and your water consumption, it will need to be emptied every one to three years. This process should only be conducted by experienced industry professionals who possess the equipment and knowledge to conduct such a procedure. From the moment you install your tank, you should set up scheduled emptying of the tank with a local team of professionals. This way you will never “forget” about it or be tempted to give it a try yourself. De-sludging is very important as if it is not done in time, the tank will block and could cause extensive damage.

4. Monitor the System

Keep a close eye on the surrounding soil as any sign of surface water in the area could indicate a problem with your septic tank system. If you feel that your toilet isn’t flushing as it should be or that any other household functions relating to the system are failing, get your septic tank checked. If there are any irregularities with anything relating to your septic tank system, it is better to get them checked immediately before a bigger problem arises.

This article was written on behalf of Carlow Concrete Tanks. Carlow Concrete Tanks provide precast concrete products & custom solutions for the Domestic, Agricultural & Environmental market. They have a wide range of products which can be viewed on their website for Domestic, Agriculture & Environmental use.